BRIDPORT Medical Centre may not have to move to Gore Cross after all now that a new site in West Allington is in the frame.

The proposed move of the overcrowded medical centre in North Allington caused a furore when it was first announced, with public opinion firmly against the out-of-town move.

Now MedCentres have found a two-acre site in West Allington - albeit outside the town's development boundary - and have deferred their planning application for Gore Cross.

In a letter to Bridport Town Council MedCentres says that negotiations with the landowner are at a very early stage and there has only been an informal discussion with planning officers.

Mr Nicholas Arnold of MedCentres said: "A very informal consultation with the planning officers indicate that planning permission might be granted on the site, if we can make a strong enough case, nothwithstanding the fact that it lies outside of the development boundary."

MedCentres is carrying out a feasibility study, which most importantly will cover flood plain mapping.

"If the site proves to be feasible from the commercial and flood plain point of view, then it will be our intention to withdraw our application for permission at Gore Cross," said Mr Arnold.

MedCentres does not want to withdraw the Gore Cross application now.

"This is because there is a great danger of us falling between two stools by not having any viable site available. If this situation arises then we could be in danger of losing allocated funding as there is no viable site on which to pin the development monies."

Early reactions from Bridport Town Council are largely favourable with councillors thinking it was a much better site than the Gore Cross proposal, although some thought there might be even better ones.

Town and district councillor David Tett said: "As an individual, I welcome this news. It is most encouraging, and I would hope that following due consultation and enquiries, an application might come forward. Moreover, I consider that the turn in events has largely been brought about following consultation, although rather belatedly, with the general public."